Rails, Gallinules & Moorhens Seasons & Limits
Rails, Gallinules and Moorhens
2022-2023 Seasons & Regulations
Regular Season
Statewide
Sept. 10 - 25, 2022
Nov. 5 - Dec. 28, 2022
Falconry
Statewide
Jan. 30 - Feb. 13, 2023
Bag Limits
| Animal | Hunt Type | Daily Bag Limit | Possession Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| King and Clapper Rails | Regular | 15 birds in the aggregate | 45 birds in the aggregate |
| Falconry | 3 birds in the aggregate | 9 birds in the aggregate | |
| Sora and Virginia Rails | Regular | 25 birds in the aggregate | 75 birds in the aggregate |
| Falconry | 3 birds in the aggregate | 9 birds in the aggregate | |
| Moorhens (Common Gallinules) and Purple Gallinules | Regular | 15 birds in the aggregate | 45 birds in the aggregate |
| Falconry | 3 birds in the aggregate | 9 birds in the aggregate |
Hunting Hours
One-half hour before sunrise to sunset.
License Requirements
Hunting License
All migratory game bird hunters must have a valid hunting license.
Texas Migratory Game Bird Stamp Endorsement
A Migratory Game Bird Endorsement is required to hunt any migratory game bird (waterfowl, coot, rail, gallinule, snipe, dove, sandhill crane, and woodcock). A valid Federal Duck Stamp and HIP Certification are also required of waterfowl hunters 16 years of age or older.
Harvest Information Program
When you purchase a hunting license, indicate to the license clerk that you intend to hunt migratory game birds and need to be HIP certified by answering a few simple questions.